Walking into Jagalchi in Daly City is like stepping into a delightful world of Korean cuisine. This exciting venue is part of Mega Mart USA, designed to showcase an array of delicious Korean foods. It encourages visitors to explore, learn, and cook traditional and trendy K-foods at home. The grand opening attracted large crowds, with anticipation for continued interest in the coming days.
Spanning 75,000 square feet, Jagalchi is reminiscent of bustling food courts found in Seoul’s department stores, especially those in Gangnam. Named after the famous Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, this complex proudly honors one of South Korea’s largest seafood markets.
Bum-suk Ha, Jagalchi’s director, emphasized the establishment’s mission to bring authentic Korean flavors to the U.S. “Jagalchi Fish Market isn’t just a trend; it’s part of our culture,” he remarked. The location is especially significant as it connects back to Nongshim, the company behind popular Korean noodles like Shin Ramyun, which has production facilities in Busan.
According to Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs, food exports from Korea to the U.S. hit a record $1.59 billion in 2024, a notable 21.8% increase from the previous year. Despite this growth, many in the Bay Area may not be familiar with a range of Korean dishes. Jagalchi’s goal is to change that, providing a vibrant shopping and dining experience.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive variety of goods. Fresh sushi and seafood line one wall, while another features kimchi, ramen, dumplings, and many other Korean staples. There’s even a street food area and a selection of K-beauty products. In the heart of this food haven is a full-service restaurant called Pogu, led by renowned chef Tony Yoo.
Chef Yoo, who notably earned Korea’s first Michelin star while at "24 Seasons," aims to marry traditional Korean flavors with a modern dining experience. He expressed a desire to incorporate seasonal ingredients from Korea into his dishes, emphasizing local partnerships as key to achieving the best flavors.
During the grand opening, diners got a taste of Pogu’s offerings, which highlight both innovative and classic recipes. One dish featured fresh fish hwe with vibrant greens, and the dessert menu included traditional treats like Injeolmi Cake.
The butcher counter offers an array of meats perfect for Korean BBQ, providing everything from tomahawk steaks to various cuts of pork and lamb. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the selection of frozen and fresh offerings, including delicacies sourced directly from Korea, ranging from dried fish snacks to unique soup kits.
Mega Mart announced plans to open another location in East Palo Alto, further expanding its reach in the Bay Area. Whether you want to dine in or take home a taste of Korea, Jagalchi promises a rich experience that blends cultural heritage with culinary delight.
Jagalchi is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Pogu operates from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it accessible for anyone eager to explore the unique flavors of Korean cuisine. For more information, visit serramontecenter.com.
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